Cité Soleil, Commune in Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, Haiti
Located near the coast adjacent to Port-au-Prince, this commune consists of densely populated residential neighborhoods connected by unpaved streets and open waterways. The built environment features closely packed housing structures arranged along irregular pathways throughout the area.
Founded in 1958 as Cité Simone, this area was initially built to house workers from a nearby sugar processing facility. Over time the population expanded significantly as economic activity shifted and the neighborhood evolved into a major residential center.
Residents have created vibrant street markets that serve as social gathering points beyond their commercial function. Local religious practices and neighborhood celebrations form the backbone of daily community life.
This area is best explored on foot, though sturdy shoes are recommended as many paths are unpaved and can become muddy depending on weather conditions. Daytime visits are advisable, and having a local guide can help you navigate and understand the neighborhood better.
This commune is where the drainage system from Port-au-Prince terminates, with multiple channels converging to form a network of waterways flowing through residential areas. This engineering feature has shaped the physical layout and daily infrastructure of the neighborhoods for decades.
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